Which of the following is an example of ionizing radiation?

Ionizing radiation refers to any radiation that has sufficient energy to remove tightly bound electrons from atoms, thus creating ions. An example of this type of radiation is X-rays. X-rays have the capability to penetrate various materials, including human tissue, and can therefore change the structure of matter at a molecular level, which is a key characteristic of ionizing radiation.

X-rays are commonly used in medical imaging and treatments, illustrating their practical application in fields that utilize radiation. Their energy levels are high enough to displace electrons, leading to potential biological effects, which is why safety precautions are critical when working with them.

In contrast, ultraviolet rays (while they can cause chemical reactions) do not have enough energy to ionize atoms in most cases and are classified as non-ionizing radiation. Radio waves and microwaves are even lower in energy and are also categorized as non-ionizing radiation, which means they primarily cause molecular vibrations rather than the removal of electrons. This distinction is important in understanding how different types of radiation interact with matter and their potential effects on health and safety.